Due to the 14th-century crisis, the most powerful families in the region fought each other for control of various economic activities. They built fortified dwellings (mainly towers) to protect themselves. This was how Bengolea (set up as a small business) came into being. The mill and foundry were economic symbols, the chapel had religious significance and the tower was a control centre, although it also provided protection.
The complex was built in the popular 18th century style and was managed by Pedro Bernardo Villarreal de Berriz, who wrote the first manual on hydraulic machinery and engineering prior to the Enlightenment.
To visit the tower, cross the bridge from the foundry and climb up the Lea Trail. The tower you can see today was built on the same site as the original 16th-century tower, with thick masonry walls. The Bengolea family coat of arms emblazons main façade.
